A gang accused of carrying out a string of high-end watch robberies across Spain has been arrested while hiding out in tourist apartments on the Costa Blanca.
Five Moroccan nationals, aged between 19 and 33, were detained by Policia Nacional in Calpe, reports Spanish newspaper ABC.
It came after what investigators describe as a fast-moving ‘crime tour’ that stretched from Madrid to Marbella and Benidorm.
Police believe the group was behind multiple violent robberies targeting luxury watches, including a Rolex worth around €500,000 stolen outside Madrid’s Ritz Hotel near the Retiro area.
From Madrid to Marbella to Benidorm
The investigation began on April 17 following the high-profile theft in Madrid. Just two days later, officers linked the suspects to a similar robbery at a hotel in Puerto Banus, Marbella.
By April 22, the same day the arrests were made, another incident had been reported in Benidorm, along Avenida Filipinas. Authorities have also connected the group to an earlier theft in central Madrid last December.
The pattern was quick, targeted strikes in luxury hotspots, followed by rapid movement between cities.
Tracked down in Calpe hideout
Working together, police units from Madrid and Alicante were able to trace the suspects to tourist apartments in Calpe, where they were believed to be lying low and possibly planning their next robbery.
Officers moved in on April 22, identifying and arresting all five suspects.
During the operation, police recovered two watches – one high-end original and one imitation – both of which have since been returned to their rightful owner.
Violence and intimidation
The suspects are being investigated for three counts of violent robbery and one theft. Authorities say the gang used intimidation to target victims, often focusing on individuals wearing expensive watches in public.
All five have been remanded in custody following their court appearance.
